The students in eight districts stood on school fields and spelled out that message or formed a smiley face or other symbol reinforcing the value of kindness. Photos and videos were shot from a helicopter flying overhead

“I want to forward this (video) around the country,” said Christy Buck, executive director of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan, which coordinated the campaign. “I would love it if some big stations picked it up and brought attention to West Michigan and the good stuff we’re doing.”

The schools have taken part in the foundation’s anti-bullying program, Be Nice, or its mental health curriculum, Live, Laugh, Love.

“This is a proactive approach to target the 80 percent of kids who can really make a difference,” Buck said.

The programs aim to change the perspective and behaviors of kids. They are encouraged to treat each other with more understanding and not to tolerate bullying.

At each session, students are asked to suggest ways to “be nice” to each other. Suggestions usually include give others compliments or wearing “be nice” T-shirts during spirit week.

At Forest Hills Central Middle School, the students suggested the flyover – which took place today.

Buck said the foundation’s board members worked hard to make the event happen. A local businessman donated the use of a helicopter. Photographer John Corriveau, video specialist John Garner and pilot Kevin Nelson all donated their services.